Parents of missing Wash. state teen: 'We are very worried'

Cole Burbank and the car he was last seen driving (Photos via Camas Police).jpg

CAMAS, Wash. — Michelle and Matt Burbank, the parents of a Camas teen who has been missing since Thursday, wanted to get a message to their son through the media:

"Please let us know you are safe, we are very worried."

Family members say Cole Burbank, 16, was last seen at Clark College at his 11 a.m. class, and his cell phone was last pinged shortly before 1 p.m.

"Cole, we just want to tell you that we love you very much and we want everything to be okay," said his father, Matt Burbank. "Whatever is going on in your mind or life, we support you, we are here to help you. The most important thing to know is that you are safe. We are looking forward to you coming home and understand you may want to be with your friends for a while and that is okay."

His parents, who were emotional in front of reporters outside Camas High School Sunday morning, hinted that he may be out there. His mother, Michelle, said they have heard of some leads that seem promising, but they have not been able to confirm anything.

Since the teenager's disappearance was announced, hundreds of community members have stepped up.

Volunteers created a Facebook page to coordinate a search effort. As of Sunday afternoon more than 1,500 people were members of the group. Family friend Amy Hoffman says people have been searching as far north as Seattle. She says some have used planes, even drones.

"Thank everyone for helping," said Michelle Burbank. "We are almost there, I know in my mother's heart."

Parents encourage the community to keep bringing leads to Camas Police. They aren't giving up their search any time soon.

"If anyone else is involved in this situation directly, please reach out to us," said Matt Burbank. "We will do whatever it takes to bring Cole home. Love, mom and dad."